The VB's

New Years

2012-01-22T22:03:00.000-08:00

New Years was a lot of fun this year!

We packed up all the kiddos and hung at Dan and Kellie's

Of course this involved lots of food, games, and one game in particular: werewolf

Can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for me and this cute guy

CHRISTMAS DAY

2012-01-22T21:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas was fabulous

We were happy to celebrate the birth of Christ and to get together with our families

Knox loved seeing everyone and especially loved the paper and boxes

All in all it was a great day!

Christmas Eve

2012-01-08T22:49:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas Eve

We went to my parent's first where we had our traditional dinner of appetizers, dips, and sandwiches.

Then we acted out the Nativity, which we have done every year since I was born.

In fact my Grandpa called me baby Jesus for at least 15 years after my parents crammed me into the cradle one year

This year we had two baby Jesus(es?) Since we had two births this last year

Ladd reprised his role as the donkey and I was the Angel helper

Afterwards we went and drove around and saw the luminaries

There truly is nothing better then family and celebrating the savior's birth

Owen and his cheeser he gave me

Ladd as the donkey

Mike, the innkeeper, with his mini-innkeeper

Annecy and Knox

Baby Jesus 1 & 2

Baby Jesus(es) and their Daddys

Knox and I!

Christmas Parties

2012-01-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

One of the best parts about the Christmas season is going to parties

Here we are before the VB family party

Here are most of the boys from Rhett's ugly sweater party

Here is the ugly sweater family. Ladd is a creep I know

Knox and one of his bud's Creighton

One of the gifts we gave

Loves boxes more then presents!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

This little boy LOVED meeting Santa for the first time

Knox @ 7 months

2011-12-10T22:28:00.000-08:00

One word describes my son right now

CURIOUS

He wants to grab, feel, and taste everything he can

He's so proud that he can grab everything now and is FAST when he really wants something (like my phone, laptop, remotes, etc.)

He also learned how to roll to get to things he wants to touch

He still is just a happy baby and we could not love him more!

*I don't know for sure but I think he weighs about 23 lbs?

*When he is feeling something he will do a four finger flick over and over

*He giggles at everything and is so happy

*Loves to grab faces and hair and it can HURT

*Screams SO loud sometimes that he hurts his throat and it's not because he is mad or sad. He just loves to scream

*Has discovered his wiener and every time we change him he's trying to grab it...sweet

*When he decides he has to reach far to grab something he will head dive to get it. It doesn't even phase him anymore. Good thing he has a hard head.

*Has tried all his veggies and bananas so far. He loves squash, carrots, and oatmeal. Isn't so sure about bananas, sweet potatoes, and he hated sweet peas!

*Is becoming a binky addict... he will pick it up and put it in his mouth all the time now

*Loves to play with his cousin Owen. They love to grab at each others' faces and steal each others' toys

*Still no teeth and that is quite alright with me considering I am still nursing

*I have seen him army crawl just a tiny bit but I think crawling will be coming soon

*He is still a CHUNK and I love it. I have always said I want my babies to be super chunky

*Goes to bed around ten these days which is so much better then 11:30

*Gets soooo distracted while eating sometimes and he'll get bugged because he has to take a break from playing

*Loves to sleep in bed with us and especially with Daddy

*Loves to be naked

*Still loves to be with people and be the center of attention

*He is the light of our lives! We're pretty obsessed with him!

7 month pic (nearly impossible to do because he wants to grab the lion the entire time)

I love this sweater (mainly because I think it's Hedwig on the front)

Just a lot of cute pictures from my iphone of Knox at 7 months

Thanksgiving

2011-12-04T13:53:00.000-08:00

This year for Thanksgiving we had a Wednesday night dinner with the VB's and a lunch with the Felsteds. Both were so delicious and both made me especially grateful for the awesome families that we have.

The two people I'm thankful for most

After lunch we headed down to Vegas to watch Scotty play soccer. He played awesome and even had a goal.

Have to get a mirror shot while you're waiting for the elevator, right?

My amazing Grandpa that I am so glad could come! He is one of my heros

Just some sexy husbands

Good Job Scotty!!

(I know you're 18 now but you'll always be Scotty)

Soccer Crew

A few things I am grateful for:

*FAMILY- My little family, my family, Ladd's family... I love every single one of them so much

*KNOX- The most amazing little guy ever. I can't believe I was blessed so much to be his mother

*LADD- Loves me and Knox unconditionally and works so hard for Knox and I and makes life so fun

*Christ, Gospel, Church, temple, etc.- All of these things give meaning to my life and help me to be happy.

*Good Friends- I have had the same best friends since 7th grade grade and they have been with me through thick and thin! They are awesome people and I would hang out with them every single day if I could. I have also become friends with a lot of Ladd's friend's wives and they are such fun girls too!

And then a few other things: health, home, books, food, work, power, technology, clothes, and really everything. I am a very blessed person.

this guy

2011-11-25T13:36:00.001-08:00

This guy loves life

And we love him in our life

Playin with Daddy

Loves his new cousin Hanes!

Just wants to touch his face

Loves his pilot hat

Loves grocery shopping

Loves his girlfriend Clara

Loves tongue smiles

Loves smiling at Mommy

Loves sleeping and binkies

Halloween 2011

2011-11-20T13:44:00.001-08:00

Halloween might be my favorite holiday

I love dressing up and having our halloween party

And now that I have a child to dress up it's even better!

This is a yard we drove past and it is AWESOME.

Wednesday and Pubert Addams

This is what Ladd was, which is to say that I have no clue what he was

Just a random goofy picture of my child

This is what we did on Halloween night. The boys dressed up scary and walked around to scare people, kinda like what teenage boys do not grown men.

This is Rhett and it was also his birthday

We also went to Ephraim a few days later to watch Connor play ball!

This is Knox bathing since there was no bathtub

Knox just being cute, like always

The fam!

_Six Months_

2011-11-06T22:13:00.000-08:00

My baby boy is 6 MONTHS!

My pregnancy went soooooo slow and then all of a sudden he is born and six months old

He gives so much meaning to everything in life and I love being his mom

He is the best, and to say that we love him doesn't even come close to describing how we feel about him

Knox at 6 months

*Was 99% head, 93% height, and 87% weight... big boy with a giant head!

*Is a chatterbug.. will sit and babble and tell me stories all day

*Wants to see and touch EVERYTHING. Now that he has got this grabbing thing down he is constantly trying to grab things and of course they go straight to the mouth

*No teeth yet... which I am fine with since I am still nursing

*Just started rice cereal but so far it seems to make him hungrier in the night? What is up with that?

*Sits up great but I still prop pillows to protect that giant noggin

*Knox loves to be the center of attention and be around people. I think he gets bored just being with me and Ladd all day

*Sometimes when he is playing he will stop and look over and smile at us. Just to make sure he still has our attention I think

*Was blowing out almost every day but I think we have it down to a few times a week

*One of Knox's favorite things to play with is napkins. He loves to tear them to pieces and shake them around. This goes for paper towels too.

*He also loves anything that makes noise especially paper bags

*Has started to gives "kisses" which means he slobers on your cheek but it's the best kiss ever

*Knox definitely recognizes people he sees often such as me (his favorite:)), Ladd, Grandma's, Grandpas, etc.

*So far Knox has no fear of anyone. He can be passed around and loves when people give him attention

*Knox will only cry when he's really really mad. Most of the time he'll let us know he is irritated by screaming and yelling really loud. My mom always said I was a very loud child so I think this is just the beginning.

*Knox can be a total show-off at times, which I think he gets from his Dad.

This picture compares his 1 month picture to his 6 month picture

He barely even looks like the same baby

Hanes VB

2011-11-06T20:53:00.000-08:00

My brother-in-law and sis-in-law had their son

and he is BEAUTIFUL and perfect!

We went up to the hospital to be there and it was so cool and Cara is one tough woman

We love him so much already!

Cara's sister is a photographer and was able to shoot the birth and the pictures from it are amazing. Her photography is B Couture Photography and she is out of southern Utah if anyone needs a photographer.

Here are just 3 of the pictures she took

He is so precious!

Life as of Late

2011-11-03T22:30:00.001-07:00

Hangin with Dad

Going to watch Uncle Con play

Going to Olive Garden

Coming home from work to this guy

My boy in his (mine) favorite onesie

Happy Birthday Heather!

Going to see Footloose

Decorating pumpkins

Finally finished Knox's room

Cute, happy bums

Playing with Owen

Life is GOOD

Family Pics 2011

2011-10-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

We went up to Snowbasin and my father-in-law snapped some family pictures for us

Luckily for us he is SO talented

The only problem is now is I bought at least 4 groupons for Canvas on Demand

and Ladd and I can't agree on which ones to print

So if you have any favorites that you think would be good to blow up PLEASE let me know. Thanks:)

Knox's First Haircut

2011-10-17T20:33:00.001-07:00

Ladd finally let me cut Knox's hair!!!

His hair was so crazy and way too long on top so it looked like he had a comb over

So Haley came over and gave him his first cut

He was happy because he knew how good he looks!!

This is a picture showing how crazy it was

And this is him eating Daddy's hat

...3 YEARS...

2011-10-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

10/01/11 was our 3 year anniversary. Year 2-3 was the most amazing year of our marriage because we were lucky enough to become parents. We have grown to love each other in completely new ways and our entire marriage has a new purpose and meaning now that we have Knox. Ladd is the best daddy and husband ever and I am lucky to have him! Love you Ladd!

To celebrate we decided to take a day and night off from being parents (yeah right we still called 5 times to check-up on him). We went to Gateway during the day and had lunch at Happy Sumo and shopped and then went up to Park City. We of course shopped there too and had dinner at Blue Iguana and then we just enjoyed our alone time! Oh and the next morning we had french toast from Kneaders... and wow...french toast will never be the same for me.

Happy Sumo

Blue Iguana

"Where should I stand?" Ladd loves just taking the picture before I'm ready

Getting my carmel apple

We stayed at NewPark but we couldn't quite get that in the picture

3 down.. eternity to go!

Frightmares

2011-10-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Knox and I went to Frightmares with my fam

We had a blast thanks to my brother Mike... He's basically in charge of Lagoon so we were hooked up!

Can't wait for next year!

Just because he is cute

...5...

2011-10-02T20:23:00.000-07:00

My baby grew to a giant overnight (at least it feels that way)

Being a mommy is so bittersweet because I get so sad that he is getting older and bigger and yet I love every new thing that he does

I was blessed with such a sweet baby and he's the best thing to ever happen to us

I mean seriously, how cute is he??

Some fun things about him

*Knox is soooooo social. He constantly wants to be around people and steal their attention. He will smile and talk to people non-stop

*His Grandma always says that he can be talked out of being mad and most of the time he is so easy going

*Knox will stare at someone until they get their attention and once they talk or smile at him he will dig his face into my chest or the ground.

*Loves to be naked and will get mad when I put clothes on him.

*Loves to scream as loud as he can and gurgle when he is happy. We call him Chewbacca

*When Knox is in a laughing mood he thinks anything I do is hilarious. He will giggle as long as I'm willing to entertain him

*Knox is rolling from his stomach to back but so far is too content to try the other way.

*Is starting to sit up pretty well but will eventually nose dive

*Constantly sticks his tongue out of his mouth and he does the best tongue smile

*Our pediatrician told us to wait on solid food so he is purely breastfed

*Knox is such a night owl, sometimes we'll both be laying in bed and he is just laying there kicking and flailing his arms. He will go to bed at 12:30 and wake up at 11:00 the next day on occasion.

*He is getting so excited and interested in the things around him. He loves to grab at everything!

*He loves when I put him in his carrier to do things around the house. I can only do it for about 20 minutes before my shoulders start to collapse

*He is in 6-12 month clothes now

*I weighed him at home and he was 20 pounds.

*We love our chunky monkey!

*The picture on the left is the day we left the hospital. The picture on the right is one I took the other day after he blew out at Smiths.

Wow

Twins

2011-10-02T20:11:00.001-07:00

The title is definitely not referring to the fact that they look anything alike.

No one would probably guess they were cousins and born a week and a half apart!

But I got to have Owen over the other day and I have a new appreciation for mothers of multiples! Luckily they are both really good babies and SO cute

I love them both so much!

Cara and Amber

2011-09-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

Two of my dear friends (and sister-in-law) are having a baby VERY soon

So we had a shower

This is a game we played where we had to see who could suck out of a baby bottle the fastest

Here is some of the people who were able to make it!

Hostesses with the preggos

Knox and I are SO excited for his two buds (and cousin) to arrive

Thanks again to Cheyenne for helping me with everything!

some recentish pictures

2011-09-18T22:47:00.001-07:00

Life according to Knox

Looking cute while I sleep

Looking cute while I float

Uncle Scotty turned 18

Partyin in my onesie

Hangin with my GF Lily

Being Harry Potter

Having blow-outs in Gateway

Mommy and me in our graphic tees

Candids

2011-09-15T23:30:00.000-07:00

How gorgeous is my child??

And how talented is my father-in-law?

He took these on the tramp while he was watching him the other day.

And they are my new favorite pictures ever

Best pouty lip

9/11/11

2011-09-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

What an emotional day. It was so good to be reminded of the amazing heroic stories that went along with the horror from 09/11. I can't believe it has already been 10 years... seems like I was just watching it all unfold in 8th grade! Does anybody else want to go to New York SO bad to the memorial? I might have to plan a trip to go once the museum is open.

I'm definitely grateful for all those that serve and for our country!

God Bless America!

And a cute picture of my son. Because I can't help it

My boys

2011-09-09T23:01:00.000-07:00

How cute is this?

Love them

Random Happenings

2011-09-06T22:03:00.001-07:00

Just some random photos/things we've been doing

Looking cute in my bath towel

Hanging out with my Uncle Wes and cousin Owen

Hangin with my girlfriend Clara

Giving Clara a kiss

Getting my first ever hole-in-one in mini golf. We take mini golf VERY seriously...

I went to a shower for one of my most favorite people, Abby

(Thanks Car for the pictures!)

KVB @ 4 Months

2011-09-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

How is my baby 4 months already????

I wish time would just freeze and I could enjoy him in this stage forever because he is SO fun

He is so happy and curious and does the most funny things

Plus he is a CHUNK (I've always been obsessed with fat babies, they are my favorite)

Ladd and I sit in bed some nights and talk about him and everything he is learning and how lucky we are to be his parents.

Here are his 4 month stats:

Length: 26.61 inches--94%

Weight: 17 lbs 12 ozs--93%

Head Circ.: 44.2 cm--92%

Like I said CHUNK, this kid definitely loves to eat!

These are his 4 month pictures

For my own remembrance here is a list of fun things he is up to

*Is a chatterbox, will sit and talk to himself or to me forever

*Makes the funniest noises such as: squealing, humming, pretend talking, gurgling, and everything in between.

*SO social, loves more than anything when people talk and pay attention to him

*Loves naps with Daddy in the morning and Mommy in the afternoon

*Sometimes will not fall asleep until midnight but sleeps until 9

*Gets so distracted while he's eating, sometimes he will just sit and laugh at me while I'm trying to get him to eat and the littlest noise will make him loose focus

*Starting to produce major drool

*Gets so excited when he gets something into his mouth to suck on

*Getting really good at rolling from his tummy to back but has no desire to get on his tummy

*Loves to look at himself in mirrors (he probably inherited that from his daddy)

*Will sit and kick and wiggle his arms as fast as he can for a LONG time

*All around he is just a good baby, he is content to just hang out with people and explore around

Moose Hollow

2011-09-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

For the FFT (Felsted Family Trip) we stayed at Moose Hollow near Pineview

It was a lot of fun at the lake and hangin out with the fam!

Ladd & Soleil

My baby boy and myself

Hilary with her twin boys!

Watching us play Volleyball

And then here is a cute picture of my son in the bathtub!

And yes... this is still happening almost daily

Bees + Rain

2011-09-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

For the 24th of July we decided to go to the Bees game (along with everyone else)

Unfortunately it started raining, but when you are with a baby you automatically get the umbrella so we stayed dry! I don't think I watched one play of the game but had a great time hangin out with the fam

One night after we went to Zupas (our favorite spot) with Lexi and Troy it started to down pour. So we decided we would have a race to see who could touch Davis first. Needless to say we got soaked!

Park City

2011-08-29T21:57:00.000-07:00

For the VB family trip we had a little get-a-way to Park City

We swam, ate, shopped, and enjoyed a lot of family time

It was a lot of fun!

How cute is my little sailor?

Not so sure about the pool

If you're wondering why this picture looks strange it's because I'm with Ladd's brother and not Ladd! Don't we look cute though?

The Avett Brothers

2011-08-15T23:32:00.000-07:00

So Ladd's favorite band came to town

I like some of their music but I wasn't super excited about going to this outdoor concert in the rain.

BUT then I thought about how many midnight showings I have drug Ladd to, so I put a smile on my face, and it was pretty fun!

And I grew a new appreciation for their music, and for drunken hippies

And a cute picture of my son for good measure

HP 7.2

2011-08-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

I'd be lying if I said this movie premiere wasn't very bittersweet for me. As excited as I was to see this last film I was also very sad to have the last big Harry event be over. Guess I will just have to go to the theme park right?:)

Anyway this movie in no way disappointed, in fact I think it may have been the most exciting one yet. As far as those who have not read the books, such as my husband, I think it is most likely the favorite of the eight. I still haven't decided yet as far as the movies are concerned.

This movie met all of my expectations except for the end. It just didn't quite capture the same feeling that I had when reading the book and there was a lot of things that went unexplained, such as why Harry even survives in the first place, which I think is paramount! Besides that it was amazing and I will go see if again (for my fourth time) anytime! So if you want to just give me a call.

How excited am I for this???? I hope this movie is half as amazing as the book! I wish I was Katniss!

(Love the slogan they used at the top)

...3 months...

2011-08-02T22:32:00.001-07:00

This little man is 3 months old!

Here is a few pics

"Hey mom what we doin?"

"Posing by this lion again??"

"Not happy about this"

"Fine I'll give you what you want"

I cannot believe my baby is already three months old! It has been the most amazing 3 months ever. Seriously being a mother has been the best experience I've had thus far in my life. It is easy for people to focus on the negative aspects of pregnancy and child rearing, but seriously there is nothing better and every sacrifice I've made has been nothing compared to the blessings and rewards. I sit and look at my son and I'm overwhelmed by how amazing he is. There is no love in the world like a mother for her child. Speaking as someone who was not 100% sure about having kids so soon I can tell you that it is SO worth it!

Here are a few things about Knox at 3 months:

*Weighs 16+ pounds

*Wears 3-6 months clothes

*Sleeps about 10 or so hours through the night

*Is a NIGHT OWL, he sometimes won't go to bed until 12 or 12:30

*So smiley and happy in the mornings until he realizes he is starving

*Will suck on anything that comes near his mouth, his favorites are his fist and his blanky

*Figured out how to suck on his top lip and it looks like he is either mad or doing a fish face

*Started giggling when he is in a certain mood, and yes it's the BEST

*Talks to us all day long

*Can sit in his bumbo and hold his head up pretty well even though he is a very big bobble head

*Loves when people talk to him more than anything

*SO chunky. He has the best man boobs

*He is such a chill baby most of the time, he really is just a happy boy

I feel like I want him to stay this age forever but I'm also excited for the things to come!

Bring on the next 3 months!

growth

2011-07-16T10:01:00.001-07:00

This kid grows like a weed

1 month

2 months

So grateful for my happy healthy boy!

...The 4th...

2011-07-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

Is the fourth not the best holiday ever?

We need more summer holidays I think.

Saturday, Whit and Jon invited us up for ribs (delicious btw) and to see the Eaglewood Fireworks

And these were the women involved

I forgot to grab the pic of the guys but here they are seeing how high they can toss a frog and catch it in their mouth. I think Ladd finally caught one because his mouth is so big

Ladd and myself

Kaysville parade!

My boy at two months..."mom what are you doing?"

"okay fine I'll smile"

Kaysville Fireworks

The VB boys

And VB girls

My fav pic of the night! Knox enjoyed the fireworks for a bit and then decided he was done with them

I love my boys

2 months for Knox

2011-06-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

Happy 2 months Knox! Time has definitely flown by...

We had his two month appointment today and here are his stats

Weight: 13 lbs 12 ozs, 91%

Height: 24.33 inches, 91%

Head: 40.6 cm, 66%

I knew our son was growing but I had no idea how much! He's huge!

I'm not too surprised though because ALL he wants to do is eat and he acts like we starve him

The shots were no fun at all but he fell asleep right after

Oh and he moved up to size 2 diapers today... which may be overdue since he's pooped out of a lot of them lately, even if I change him right away!

We LOVE this boy

Showing off his cute bod

Going to watch Daddy play ball

It's true he does love his Mommy

At his 2 month appointment today. Before the shots because he is still happy!

Cheeks

2011-06-26T17:03:00.000-07:00

Look how big these cheeks are getting

I love it. Perfect for mommy to kiss ALL the time

my baby boy

2011-06-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

Seriously I could not love my kid more and I know people get sick of hearing that but it is so true! We blessed him on Father's Day and it was such a special day. Ladd gave him an amazing blessing and he looked pretty dang cute in his outfit. (He looks like he should be playing tennis). Here are some pics

His tennis outfit

My sweet Grandpa came from Idaho

Family picture

Felsted Fam

Van Brocklin Fam

My two boys. I'm so blessed to have them both in my life!

Loves kisses from his mommy

I keep thinking to myself how lucky I am to be his mother. He is such a good baby and I don't know what I did to deserve him. Here are a few fun facts about him

*He is CONSTANTLY hungry. He eats a ton and the only time he cries really hard is when he is starving. All his hard work is paying off because he is getting some awesome fat rolls on his legs and arms and has a pretty big belly.

*He is smiling on purpose now and sometimes it seems like he is trying hard to laugh... I can't wait for that!

*Throws his head around all the time... his neck must be very strong because he's got a pretty big head!

*He is starting to sleep through the night...yes I am a very lucky mom!

*Loves walks with mom...usually puts him right to sleep

*Sleeps best cuddling with mom or dad. He is actually pretty spoiled because I don't set him down enough during the day

*Has a really great fake cry. Usually it makes us laugh

*Grunts A LOT. We are getting him out of our room soon.

*His fingernails grow SO fast. I'm seriously cutting them all the time or I get majorly clawed.

*He is the only person in the world who enjoys my singing. Sometimes I play music and sing and dance for him...so far he loves Lady Gaga and the Black Eyed Peas. (Good thing he won't remember any of this when he's older)

*He recognizes mom and dads voices and will smile if he is in a good mood..(mostly for me)

*Hates to be left alone in a room while he's awake so we get to hang out together all day!

*Loves his binky and always chomps down on it...but he always spits it out when he falls asleep.

*Gets angry when we burp him halfway through his feeding...he loves to eat more then anything and isn't picky. He'll take breastmilk normal or from a bottle at any temperature and will eat formula too!

*Loves to stare at lights or what we call his "friends" (stuffed animals that hang from his bouncer) but he loves even more when people talk to him.

*I love this little boy a lot if you can't tell.

blue steel+tub time

2011-06-12T22:51:00.001-07:00

We finally got a picture of his blue steel face.

Or is he trying to whistle?

Either way it's pretty cute if you ask me

Also, this kid has started to LOVE his baths

Too cute not to share

recent happenings

2011-06-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

Here is just a few things we've been up to lately

This guy

is officially a month old

My darling nephew, Owen, was blessed

The whole family!

Family picture

Loved his outfit, I don't know how he feels about it

My sweet Grandma passed away. It was a blessing because she has been sick for a very long time but we definitely miss her and her beautiful smile. My Grandma is one of the toughest women I know as she endured many different diseases throughout her life. She was an amazing example of love, service, and enduring to the end. Love you Grandma!

Our family at the funeral

All of my parent's cute grandkids

Being a mother is such an amazing experience. Everyone always talks about the love you have for your kids and they aren't lying. Everyday I love him more, I'm so lucky to be his mom!

...One month of Knox...

2011-05-28T22:21:00.000-07:00

Our first month as parents has completely flown by but we have definitely enjoyed getting to know our son. I may be a bit biased but I think he's the most perfect baby to have ever been born. (Okay I'm definitely biased as his mom). Here are a few out of hundreds of things we love about him.

*His many facial expressions. He does an awesome Zoolander face that I haven't caught on film yet when he is in his milk coma and he gets this really cute angry face when he's screaming and super hungry.

*His hair. I got my wish that he would have some luscious locks. We love to style it and I love when I am burping him and it sticks up really cute in back. This kid can get some great bed head. He also LOVES to have his head rubbed and loves when we wash his hair.

*Knox can be very stubborn and will let you know if he is unhappy although he usually does it with a fake cry or lots of grunting or he will throw his head and body around. The only time he really cries hard is when he is starving.

*Knox is just a funny baby so far. When he is falling deeply asleep he makes really funny faces and will smile and laugh. He can also be very particular (like his Daddy) about certain positions we hold him in among other things. He will randomly make funny noises that have us laughing too.

There is nothing better then being his Mom! When he looks at me when I'm talking to him or when he snuggles up next to me my heart melts. We really are so blessed with such a good, healthy, happy baby. Plus look how cute some of his newborns are

Smile

2011-05-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

we're in love

How could we not be with a face this cute?

Knox's First Week

2011-05-06T23:11:00.000-07:00

We've had a pretty crazy first week

Filled with feeding, diaper changing, visitors, dirty laundry, and sleepless nights

I wouldn't trade any of it though; being a mother is the most special job on earth

I can't believe that I am lucky enough to be the mother of such an amazing tiny human

There are no words to describe the love that we have for Knox!

Here are some pictures from our first week

Creighton came and visited us. Derek and Ladd grew up together and it's so much fun to both have sons so close in age

Here they are!

Ladd and Knox before his softball game

Bath time. Knox hates his sponge baths but LOVES his hair washed

Ladd's 25th birthday. My present was to him was birthing his son!

We went to to pediatrician for Knox and he is such a healthy boy!

Here are the stats:

Length: 21 inches, 84th percentile

Weight: 7 lbs 10 ozs, 36th percentile

Head 36.3 cm, 52th percentile.

At birth they said he was 19 inches. So either they measured wrong or he grew 2 inches in 2 days which would be amazing!

Don't you just love his little cleavage in this picture??

This is Knox meeting his cousin Owen for the first time. Owen is a week and a half older.

So much fun to have cousins so close in age!

This is Knox meeting his girlfriend Clara for the first time!

Can't wait to have lots of playdates

I love these jammies!!

Going out for the day!

Knox Ladd Van Brocklin

2011-05-02T21:20:00.001-07:00

04/30/11

7 lbs 15 oz

19 inches

We welcomed our amazing son Knox on April 30th! I cannot even describe my feelings towards this little human but he is the best thing that has ever happened to us and I don't think it's possible to love someone more! We were so blessed with such a smooth pregnancy and delivery and while it's fresh on my mind I want to document it so I don't forget anything!

Friday at 4 pm Ladd's brother, Connor, came home from his mission to Korea. So there I was at the airport HUGE and pregnant but happy that I was able to be there. My back hurt SO much that day and at times I could barely walk. We brought him home and were loving being with him. I was definitely having contractions all that day but I had been for days so I was trying to ignore them unless they became a lot stronger. Around 9:30 I was almost positive that my water was leaking so we decided to go into McKay Dee and see what they said. When we went home to grab our bags I was shaking really bad because I was so nervous but Ladd gave me a blessing and I felt so calm the rest of the night. I'm very thankful for Ladd and his ability to give me a priesthood blessing!

Well we grabbed our bags (I of course brought way too much) and headed up to McKay Dee. They couldn't tell if my water was leaking for sure but I had dialated more so when they called my doctor she told them to admit me. Thank goodness!! They started me on pitocin at around 12:30 and gave me an epidural around 1:30. They broke my water sometime after that but at 3:30 I was still not dialated passed a 3 so we sent our family home thinking it was going to be a while before anything happened!

At 5:30 the nurse came in and said I was a 6 1/2 and she said she'd be back at 6:45 to check me again. That hour went by SO slow because I was really anxious and even though I literally had no pain I could tell my body was changing. The nurse came in at 6:30 and discovered that I was dialated to a 10 and that he was coming very soon! We called our moms and told them to hurry!

At 6:50 I started pushing right as my mom, Jesse, and Ladd's mom arrived. Knox was born at 7:05 so I pushed for about 15 minutes! The nurses said on average first-time moms push for 50 minutes so how lucky do I feel?? The entire process was so calm and thanks to the epidural I literally felt next to no pain at all. Props to women who want to go natural (like the lady in the room next to me who was literally screaming at the top of her lungs) but I already know I can't handle the pain! What I did feel of contractions before my labor and a few on my left side when my epidural wasn't quite even makes me even more sure of that! Well this is quite the long story, and pictures are always the best part of any post so here is a picture overload!

So relaxed after his first bath. I love this picture

Screaming at the top of his lungs after he came out

Meeting Daddy for the first time

Trying on my Jordan beanie

Aunt Lexi. I love his little face in this picture

My two sleepy boys!

I love taking naps like this!

Uncle Wes and Aunt Jesse. Jesse has been so supportive and helpful throughout my entire pregnancy and she took a lot of the awesome video and pictures at the birth. Thanks sis:)

I LOVE when he's awake and not crying

Going home! Wish us luck these next few weeks...hopefully we learn this parenting thing fast!

The Reunion

2011-04-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

Today, CVB returns from Korea

Welcome home Con!! You have DEFINITELY been missed!!

*I think Knox wants to be at the airport so he's refusing to come out

Any day now...

2011-04-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

Right now I am a pretty impatient pregnant woman. I want to have this baby, I want to hold and kiss him, I want to be able to roll in bed without pain, and I would really like to be done with labor! I'm getting pretty nervous about it because I am not a tough person. I already know I have a low pain tolerance and if I usually cry when I'm in large amounts of pain. I have already planned ahead for this and bought water-proof mascara so I don't look like a raccoon for my son... So while I am waiting, I'm going to fantasize about what he may be like!

There are a few traits that I hope he gets from his Daddy, like Ladd's athleticism and metabolism. Ladd is very athletic and coordinated and I am definitely not. I mean I danced and cheered and everything but I hope he's athletic like the VB's. Actually the rest of my family is athletic and talented too so that'd be fine just as long as he doesn't get skipped over by the same gene that I did. Oh and Ladd eats whatever he wants, whenever he wants and can't gain a pound. I seriously wouldn't be surprised if his body fat percentage is somewhere around 6%. I think it was last time he was tested...

My husband has hops

His full head of hair

Hopefully the old wives' tale about getting the mother's father's hair is not true because it would be a shame if our son didn't get these luscious locks. There is nothing wrong with baldness but I think a lot of guys would kill for this hair.

Another thing I've very excited to see is his eye-color. My brown-eyes are supposed to be the dominant gene, but you never know!

I will be happy with whatever as long as one of our kids gets these eyes

(Ladd's sister is on the left)

One thing I hope Baby VB picks up from my side is brains! Preferably not mine, but my Dad's. My Dad is a very smart man!

Another thing I hope he gets from me is my health. I have been very blessed with great health all my life (knock on wood). I rarely get sick, I feel awesome most of the time, and nothing weird has happened to me. (Again knock on wood). I attribute a lot of this to an awesome immune system I've built up from working at the bank with all the germy money and people!

Ladd on the other hand has something weird happen to him every other week. A few recent examples: concussion, a weird swelling mass on his face and finger, torn kidney, hole in his heart, etc. He is very accident and weirdness prone.

Of course we will love our child and think he's perfect no matter what.

Now it's just time for him to come!!!!!!!!! Mommy's waiting!!!!!!!

*Here are some pictures of Carly and I. The first is when we told each other we were both pregnant and due 4 days apart. The second is us both at 38 weeks preggo. So fun to look back!

2-3

2011-04-04T19:41:00.001-07:00

Yes, I turned 23 on Saturday

My birthday was great, thanks to an amazing husband, family, and friends

I went to breakfast with Ladd, lunch with Haley, dinner with my mom and sisters, and had cake and ice cream with Ladd's family...I'm a lucky girl!

Ladd really did not want to take this picture because his face is swollen for some unknown reason (luckily he still looks very cute, and at least we are twinners now)

This is what Haley got for our baby and I LOVE IT!!! The funny thing is I've been looking for some Harry onesies recently and I absolutely love this one. You can't see if but it has the entire ABC's with things such as, "A is for Auror, B is for Butterbeer...". It's really not possible for this onesie to be any cooler.

35 weeks! I know I have 4 left now but I'm really trying to get him out in 2. (Yeah right)

Any tips as to how I can do this?

preggo wisdom

2011-03-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

These are a few items that I have loved/needed while being pregnant

Bio-Oil

I can't swear that it will prevent stretch marks for everyone because I'm pretty sure it's mostly genetics. However, it does feel great, smells awesome, and kept me from being so itchy ALL the time. Sometimes I would mix it with my lotion so it would go further and so far it has worked for stretch marks but I still have at least 4 weeks left...so wish me luck.

Compression Stockings

These beauties are a life-saver even though you will feel and look like a grandma. Trust me, it is totally worth it. If I don't wear these to work everyday my legs feel heavy, achey, and swollen. Plus they prevent varicose veins

A good white tank top

I have tried out a few different brands and types looking for the perfect white tank top. Target's were AWFUL and my belly grew out of them pretty fast. AE's so far have worked pretty well for me and I just bought a larger size then I normally would. The best I have found were in the maternity section from H&M and Motherhood Maternity because they held their shape best and stayed long enough for a while. Oh and I need about 5 of these because I spill on mine everyday.

A good comfy sports bra

No I did not need one to work out in, I wear one everyday. My old bras became uncomfortable in like a week so I found this one below at Target. I like it because it is tight and stays that way AND because of the straps. Normal sports bra straps don't work well with most outfits.

Self-Tanner

I am definitely a person who cannot pull off the fair-skinned, pasty white look. I wanted to quit tanning anyways and it's not recommend when your preggo I invested in some self-tanner. Yes, it can be expensive at first... this bottle was 40$ BUT it has at least 7 full body applications so in fact it becomes cheaper than going to a tanning salon. St. Tropez has been my favorite so far, even over spray tans. Just putting a little on my face before bed makes me feel so much better about myself because I am completely clueless when it comes to face make-up and don't bother with much. Anyways if you try this make sure and buy gloves first so your hands don't turn orange...learned that one the hard way!

Cardigans

One of the only clothing items (besides shoes) that I can feel good about buying are cardigans. I haven't had to buy a bigger size then I normally would and I can wear them after I am done being pregnant.

I am definitely not an expert in anyway but maybe someone will benefit from me sharing this... or at least I did because I'll remember for next time.

If I could give advice to other preggos and my future pregnant self it would be to NOT take 16 credits when you are due a week after the semester ends.

This leaves no time or energy for working out or cleaning the house!

Penguin

2011-03-19T22:27:00.001-07:00

Apparently I now resemble a penguin when I walk (according to Ladd & others)

I always thought preggos waddled because their belly is so big

but in reality it's because their back and pelvic region are really sore and stiff

Sometimes I can't even believe how slow I move

Hopefully these next 6 weeks go fast or I may start needing a wheelchair!

Baby Shower + Maternity Pics

2011-03-07T21:47:00.000-08:00

My sisters and mother threw me and my sister-in-law an amazing shower over the weekend with my family

I got some great stuff for the babe and it was so good to see everyone!

The diaper cake my sister made me

Mommys to be!

Jesse, Kelly, Me, Hilary, and Momma

Also, I had my father-in-law take some very low-key maternity pictures because I figured I may as well do it before I get absolutely enormous and because it's my first time being pregnant! So here they are, he did such a good job and it was exactly what I had in mind

Ladd palming our babies head

V-Day and Idaho Wedding

2011-02-23T22:45:00.001-08:00

Valentines Day is always a good day...

This year Ladd went on a golf trip with the guys for his Valentines present

And I got a NOOK!!!!! Whoooo!!!! Ladd totally surprised me and if you know me you know I love reading more than almost anything so it is a perfect gift for me.

Anyways, Ladd had two basketball games on actual Valentine's Day so we went to Tempanyaki the next night and it definitely fulfilled my preggo cravings, it was delicious.

Us at Tempanyaki

The boys that we went with

And the girls

Last weekend we drove to Idaho for my cousin's wedding, which was beautiful. Afterwards at the luncheon my niece, Ciel, stole my date from me and he even got a kiss on the cheek.

Such a cute pic of them.

Vivi just gets more adorable every time I see her.. I love her cute front teeth!

And this is Ladd driving the whole way home with these shades that we found in my late Grandpa's things the other day.

Yes he made it the entire way and didn't even fall asleep once.. I'm so proud:)

Oh and a nearly 30 week belly pic!

*We went to the doctor today and his growth is very on track except for his head, his head is enormous. Like it measures two weeks bigger than the rest of his body.

She said it is either full of ego or brains... hmmm....hopefully brains

Friend Shower

2011-02-21T22:47:00.001-08:00

My awesome friends Carly and Heather threw a friend shower for me about a week ago and it was AWESOME! To be honest I had way more people come then I ever thought would and it meant a lot to me that people would come and bring presents for my little boy... let's just say he is already spoiled. Here are a few pictures from that night.

The awesome hostesses and myself

Me, Bristol, and Beck

The wives of Ladd's friends that are also my friends now! Amber, Cassidy, and Cheyenne

HS friends, Nicole, Emily, Michelle, Heather, Tiff, Car, and Ash.

Thanks again everyone for coming!

*The dress I wore made me look like a blimp in every picture I feel like, seriously.

Dressing a preggo body is harder than I thought it would be

My belly is BIG

2011-02-06T23:23:00.001-08:00

This picture was taken today... at 27 weeks 5 days.

I swear I look at least 36 weeks.

He better come early... I think that's only fair.

Oh and I think we decided on a name, (finally!!!!)

This picture was from the Jazz game we went to last night with Jordan and Jessica and it was a BLAST! They were so nice to invite us to a way nice suite with a fancy dinner (we totally felt like high rollers) and Ladd got to go see his favorite team, OKC, play. THANKS AGAIN!

Christmas and the New Year

2011-01-12T18:46:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas and New Years was awesome... that is all.

Pictures are more fun anyways

Vivi and Wes... love this little girl

Me at 21 weeks preggo

Seriously her smile is the best!

New Years Eve at the Gruningers

The boys being creeps as usual

The girls being cute as usual

And then a random Jazz game we went to!

Preggo Update

2010-12-26T23:00:00.000-08:00

21 weeks as of today! It kind of feels like it's flown by... which is a good thing. Sometimes I feel like I still have forever to prepare and sometimes I feel like I should be doing more. We had another ultra-sound and confirmed 100% that it is a boy and I swear everyone who is due around the same time I am is having a boy! We really have no idea on names because we don't agree on many. I'm really not too worried about it yet and I'm hoping it will just one day come to me. I seriously have had such a good pregnancy so far... no complaining from me! I can sleep more than I used to but there is no problem in that. The nausea and serious smell aversion went away along with my first trimester and I am trying to work out more because I have a lot more energy. Some serious changes I have noticed though:

*My emotions are way stronger. Any strong emotion makes me cry, whether it is happy, sad, or mad (my main three) and I think Ladd has wondered if I'm crazy. It's funny (afterwards) to think about me crying about something and Ladd being completely baffled as to why and trying so hard to figure it out. Thank goodness he's so easy going!

*I am LOOSING my mind. I cannot tell you how many important things I have forgotten to do or left somewhere. From what I've heard it's not coming back either

*My ribs feel crushed between my growing belly and boobs so if I slouch it is hard to breathe. I can imagine it's only going to get worse but on the upside hopefully my posture will improve.

*I may be paranoid but I swear my ankles are starting to swell.

*My belly button is freaky and stretched out and it will only be a matter of time before its fully popped...I miss my old belly button (and waistline for that matter)

*I sometimes love being pregnant because being a girl I used to feel guilty about eating a lot. Now I eat the same amount as I did before and don't even worry about it!

*I love feeling our baby moving and getting stronger. I also love when Ladd can feel him too

*I watched some birth videos (and made Ladd watch one, and he ran out of the room so grossed out) and it only confirmed to me that I am not the type to try for a natural birth. I know I have a low pain tolerance and I just don't think it's for me. I admire all of you who have gone through it though.

Anyways we have had a great holiday and will be posting pictures soon... and then my life will end because school starts again. That's all for now!

it's a.....

2010-11-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

BOY!!!!!!

And yes, my husband could not be happier. I don't think I have seen him that giddy EVER in his life. Not even when we got married!

Except the umbilical cord was in the way so she couldn't give us a 100%...so we'll go off an 80

I'll keep all my receipts just in case

Oh and good news... he has a huge head and big feet.

And during the ultrasound his hand was "down there"

So definitely a boy!!

Last night I basically planned out how I want to do his entire room... now I just need lots of $$

And does anyone know where to get cute boy crib bedding? I can't find anything I like...

Harry Potter 7.1

2010-11-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

LOVED this movie.. I want to go again but need to find someone to go with me! So if you're going.. you know who to call. I thought they did an awesome job sticking close to the book but of course there were a few things I'd change... here's my list. (Oh and don't read if you haven't either read the book or seen the movie!!!)

Things I loved:

*I actually loved the end of Hedwig more than I did in the book. Sacrificing herself to save Harry? Automatic tear. And it made perfect sense for the sake of the movie because it was more visual and gave a good reason as to why Voldemort knew which one was the "real" Harry.

*Hermione wiping her parents' memories was cool to see. The book never actually shows it but it makes you think how really awful it would be to have to do that.

*The scene at the Ministry of Magic. It really put the fear into you when they are trying to escape but it also allowed for some humor as well. And then it goes to Ron being splinched? Ouch.

*Godric's Hollow. The scene with Harry's parents' graves and his house is very emotional. And then I was straight terrified as soon as I saw Bathilda's face. They could not have made her any more creepy and even though I knew what was going to happen I still jumped when the snake came out.

*The Doe patronus scene was perfectly done. And then to see Harry jump in ice water and then almost die because of the Horcrux was better in the movie then in my imagination. This leads to the return of Ron (yeah!) and the destroying of the locket. I actually liked how they did that scene and Ron's nightmare but I guess if they did want to make the movie more kid friendly Harry and Hermione didn't have to kiss for that long. It caused a lot of controversy (with them being naked from the shoulders up) but I thought it was fine!

*Dobby's death made me cry. Daniel Radcliffe did a very good job of portraying Harry's sadness and the loss he felt.

*Voldemort stealing the Elder Wand. It was the perfect end to the movie to see him cast the scariest bolt of lightening ever and show how powerful he is. How will Harry ever beat him now?:)

Things I did not like as much:

*During the chase I wish they would have had Hagrid jump off the motorcycle to save Harry. It only adds to my love of Hagrid and shows that he'll do anything for Harry.

*Ginny is just awkward and not very cute. Is that a little harsh? I mean I'm glad they are loyal to their actors as a franchise but I always picture her very pretty and charming and in the movie she's missing both.

*The monument to Harry's family in Godric's Hollow. How hard would it have been to add that in? Also, Godric's Hollow was perfect in the end but had a creepy feel the entire time and it really should have been a more inviting place in the beginning of that scene.

*Where was Dean Thomas? First of all he's eye-candy and secondly I just don't understand why he couldn't have been included in the final scene.

*Overall the scene I wish they would have changed the most was the scene at the end. Remember the first time you read this? I was thinking "how in the hell are they going to get out of this?" There was nothing humorous about this situation. Hermione is being tortured and Voldemort is only minutes away from arriving. AND they left out the scene with Wormtail and his silver hand. This scene is the only redeeming scene for Wormtail and shows that deep down he probably does regret the betrayal of his friends by saving Harry's life. It also would have been a great visual to see his hand strangling himself...that is my biggest complaint.

*To go along with this I think Dobby had too many lines at the end. I mean he's sitting there talking to Bellatrix and they are all just standing there watching...Dobby is supposed to be terrified to be back at the Malfoy residence but is being brave to save Harry and his friends. Instead he has lines that make the scene humorous and it just doesn't fit. I love Dobby but they did not "do" him right.

I think I need to say THANK-YOU to Ladd for coming with me. He had to work the next day and yet still went with me and had a good attitude because he knew it was important to me! He's the best!

Boy or Girl?

2010-11-15T08:36:00.000-08:00

Alright well my next doctor's appointment is officially a week away! Heres the chance I'm sure you all have been waiting for to vote on the sex of my baby... right there in the top right corner!

Top 3 reasons to be excited for November

2010-11-10T22:11:00.001-08:00

3. LAS VEGAS... We are going to Las Vegas over Thanksgiving with my family and I can't wait. Is there a better place to do some Black Friday shopping? It will definitely be nice to do some shopping and hang out with family before finals week.

2. THE SEX OF OUR BABY... Our next appointment is November 23rd and I am already way anxious to find out what "it" is growing inside me! I feel like once I know I can be patient with the rest of my pregnancy so I wish time would just hurry up already. Plus once I know what it is I can actually start shopping and planning for things and try and pick a name that we both agree on. Ladd and his Dad are 100% positive it's a boy so I think it's most definitely a girl. I'll have to do a poll or something when it gets closer.

1. HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 1... I am seriously counting down the days and to be honest I think these last two movies will be far and away the best in the series. I mean have you seen any of the trailers? Chills every time. First of all because it was my favorite book in the series. Secondly because they made the awesome decision to split it up. Did they do it because they knew they would make twice as much money? Probably.. but I don't care. This gives them the opportunity to NOT leave out any critical moments from the book and to not have to rush through every scene. I recently re-read the 7th book and took note of when the first movie would end to see how I would feel about it (which by the way it is right after Voldemort takes the Elder wand) and I don't think they could have chosen a better spot. Now all I need is to get my HP t-shirt and my wand I'll be good to go!

Is it a little weird that I am equally excited for Harry Potter and to find out the sex of our baby? I think it's because the midnight showing is before our Doctor's appointment and I've had the last 3 years to be excited for this movie... I've only known about my baby for 10 weeks.

As of late...

2010-11-07T14:25:00.000-08:00

I should probably update my blog more often so I don't have to overload each post with pictures.. but here are some pictures from October.

Us at Frightmares

Thriller! We had a blast!

My amazing pumpkin that I carved.. I seriously worked so hard on it

Yes that is my husband in his LITTLE sister's Jr. High uniform. He tried on my high school and her high school uniform and they were way too small... go figure

Honestly I thought he'd be a prettier girl than he was... he was just creepy. Oh and I am a spider

I love this picture of Lil Wayne and Lady Gaga

The entire group! Thanks everyone for coming.. We will definitely be keeping up this tradition in the future!

TWO YEARS

2010-10-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

This post is about a week late but oh well!

2 years ago on October 1, 2008 I married Ladd

Best decision I have ever made

He is definitely not perfect

But he's perfect for me and makes me happy everyday

Definitely a reason to celebrate!

Can't get over this shirtless guy in the background

I can't wait to start our family together!

...Yes it's true...

2010-09-28T20:08:00.000-07:00

Yep, I'm PREGNANT! Pretty crazy still to me and we were definitely surprised when we got a plus sign on that stick but we are VERY excited! I am nine weeks and we had our first doctor's appointment today where everything looked well and our baby is making an appearance around May 4th...

So far I have been beyond exhausted... I am already a sleepy person and need my 8 hours and now I just feel like I can constantly be taking a nap. The nausea hasn't been too bad (as in I haven't actually thrown up) but certain smells, like the dishes, make my stomach turn... so luckily Ladd has that duty from now on!

Oh and Ladd is almost positive it is a boy... which makes me almost positive it is a girl... it will be interesting to see what IT really is!

We really have no clue what we are doing, what to buy, how to raise a newborn, but we can't wait for the experiences ahead!

...Summmmer...

2010-08-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a very busy summer, but a fun one indeed....

Here are just some random pictures from the past month or so..

Took some pictures on a lovesac

Fourth of July!

Beautiful Haley got married!

Went Bowling

Cara turned 20!

Went to Island Park and Yellowstone with my family.. this is us at a play!

Kell and I at Yellowstone

From Island Park we went and camped at Palisades Reservoir and rafted the Snake with Ladd's family!

Big Kahuna... scariest moment of my life

This past week I went with cute pregnant Heather and her family to Lake Powell

So much fun!

HIKE + RANDOM

2010-06-20T23:24:00.000-07:00

So us and the Gruningers went on a little hike up Adam's Canyon the other day! It was definitely the most tiring thing I have done in a while but so worth it once we got to that waterfall

The boys got in!

The girls did not (especially after seeing their reaction)

It was a beautiful day!

This is a movie night we had

Oh and this little beauty is my arm during my allergy testing. Basically I am allergic to every grass, weed, and tree around. Oh and dust mites and mold. Fun. I counted after and it was 98 shots total

Thanks Dad for the allergies!!

On a more serious note it is Father's day and like I've said before Ladd and I both have amazing parents! Our dads could not be more opposite but they are both awesome and would both do anything for us and we love them VERY much! Happy Father's Day to them and all you other great dads out there

Wally

Todd

Time to Brag

2010-05-24T17:44:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday my little brother, Scotty, and his soccer team played for the state championship! And guess what....

THEY WON!!

It was so exciting and I am so proud of him!

He's just a little sophomore but plays a lot of Varsity and is awesome

CONGRATULATIONS!

Our Moms

2010-05-11T18:46:00.001-07:00

I know it is a few days late but I have to say that Ladd and I are so blessed to have such amazing moms! I have just come to realize over the past few years how much my mom does and continues to do for me. She has always been so supportive and helpful and I know I can go to her about anything! I am always calling her to ask questions or get help with something and she really has become one of my best friends. She's so funny and I know where I get my occasional ditziness and my competitive nature. Hopefully I will pick up more of her qualities so I can be as good of a mom as she is!

I have heard a lot of awful stories about mother-in-laws from various people and I can definitely say that I have the best mother-in-law ever. She is the sweetest, kindest, person out there and I really don't think I've ever heard her say an unkind word in my life. She is so easy to get along with and would do anything for her family! Ladd is really close to his mom and I love that they have such a good relationship.

I really don't know where we would be without these two women. They are the perfect example of what kind of mother I want to be and we love them so much!

Just a few things

2010-05-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

There has been a few things happening in our life lately!

Got a new bike for my b-day!

Went to Thaifoon for my b-day

Got to spend some time with one of my favorite people!

And hang out with this girl

Went for a drive

Got our butts kicked by these two

Spent some time with the Henry's... don't really know what they are doing here

At least we are cute

This guy was lucky enough to go to NYC with our brother-in-law, Jason, for his b-day

Fulfilled a life-long dream to go to Yankee stadium

Went to the Phantom of the Opera

Oh and they got to experience first-hand that fun bomb in the Pathfinder... it was parked outside their hotel in Times Square. They got evacuated at 11 pm and got to walk around NYC for the next few hours! So glad that guy didn't know what he was doing because they walked right past the car on their way to the Phantom!

Even though I don't have a picture we both survived finals week! I could not have been more relieved to finish some of my classes. The best part is that we started back up again this week... Summer school was a bad idea

Happy Cinco de Mustacheo!!!

This is how my work likes to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.. all the men grow out nasty mustaches... if I could grow one I definitely would

WAY back Wednesday #2

2010-04-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

This is right after Ladd and I started dating in July 2004

Who would have thought we would end up together??

I just like my blonde streaks

I've always loved this picture because it was candid

This is Ladd and Moose and we miss him sooooo much

How can you not love this face?

B & B

2010-03-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

It was a very big day for the Felsted clan...

Baptism and a blessing all in the same day!

It was so great to be apart of it and we love our nieces:)

I LOVE HER... look at this little attitude she has going!

This picture makes me smile because it is so cute!

4 generations of Felsted women!

....I don't even know...

2010-03-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

A very good thing about my job is that there is never a dull day when you work with the public.

Seriously...

When I first started a older lady came to me and said "You know I used to be a _____ a long time ago"

I said "Oh really? That's so cool"

She said "Yeah, and back then we actually had to wear clothes"

Yeah I was pretty taken back, considering I was wearing dress pants and a t-shirt

Then yesterday a couple walks in and I proceed to help the husband and I notice the wife waving my co-worker over to say something to her.

They leave and my co-worker comes over to me in a shocked and amused state

Apparently, the wife motioned her over to say

"That girl is showing too much cleavage and I don't want my husband staring, could you tell her to wear something different for work?"

Wow

Maybe, just MAYBE if I had ben wearing something remotely scandalous I would feel stupid

but nope.... this is almost the exact shirt I was wearing

This just raises many questions!

Exactly how insecure is this girl?

Why does she feel the need to pass her opinion along to my co-worker when I am not dressed inappropriate in ANY WAY?

Why doesn't she just tell me herself?

Does she not let her husband go to a swimming pool?

Or even go anywhere where girls may not be wearing turtlenecks?

That husband has a LONG life ahead of him!

In my dreams..

2010-03-16T21:25:00.001-07:00

If I was ever invited to the Oscars THIS is what I would wear.

She looked stunning!

In other news we discovered today that Ladd has 4 cavities and needs a full crown.

Oh and he has to get his wisdom teeth out as well...

Fun!

the newest addition...

2010-03-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

My sister Kelly and her husband Jason just had their 4th! A beautiful little girl named Vivienne Grace, (pronounced Vivi-n). Everything went well with the delivery and we could not be more excited to add+ one to the Felsted fam! We love her so much already!

Soooo beautiful!

Love this picture of her crying

Ladd's first time meeting her

These are some pictures from a few weeks ago... I went to the zoo with the nieces and I think I had more fun than they did because I LOVE the zoo. This is Ciel and I with the big giant Gorilla

Girls in front of the sign

Randon and Amber were nice enough to invite us to a jazz game and it was a blast! We got to be in a suite so they fed us and I even had my favorite kind of carmel apple to take home. Thanks again:)

V-DAY LOVIN...

2010-02-18T23:44:00.000-08:00

We sort of had a Valentines weekend instead of just one day!

Friday-We went to Aanni's beautiful wedding and to Valentine's Day

Saturday-Park City for Sushi and shopping and then Heather and I made such a yummy dinner for our men!

I'm pretty proud of our skills (even though Heather is the one with the skills, not me)

It was awesome though! I love Ladd so much and am lucky to have him

This was the dinner we made (minus the chocolate covered strawberries)

steak, crab, potatoes, and asparagus!

Oh and my cute husband in the background

I'm Obsessed

2010-02-06T22:10:00.000-08:00

So one of my favorite shows lately has been Dogs 101 and I love it! I'm watching the AKC Eukanuba National Championship right now and I think later on in life I am going to be a breeder...If not I will for sure own a few dogs one day!

This is one of the dogs I REALLY want

And this is one of Ladd's top picks (which I also love)

Might be a tough decision to make one day

Way Back Wednesday

2010-01-27T21:45:00.000-08:00

Well I have seen this on other (much more creative and cute) blogs so I thought I would try it!

This is Ladd and I horseback riding in Idaho a few years ago. This is the first and last time Ladd will ever be on a horse because the first experience terrified him.... Notice how at ease I am?:) Guess that is the benefit of having grandparents with horses!

I'm going to apologize in advance for the graphic pictures! I came across these the other day and it makes me cringe. This is Ladd's ankle after he compressed and broke it while on his mission. (Actually we're not completely sure what happened!) Isn't it disgusting????

Seriously sorry again. I couldn't help myself

P.S.-Is there anything worse than knowing 110% that you failed a test? I don't think so

P.P.S-Thanks for the comments on my last post:) I was so happy to hear from you!

The New Year

2010-01-17T23:59:00.000-08:00

Well I am kind of bored on this Sunday night so I thought I might as well blog. Does anyone actually read my posts? I kind of don't think so because the only person who comments is my sister Jesse and that is just because she is nice and is my sister. Oh well.

New Years was fabulous thanks to the Gruningers and since then we have just been working and going to school. Same boring stuff! Ladd and I have a class together this semester so it's not as bad as it could be. Did I mention I paid 55$ to take a 4 hour test to get into the teaching program though?

Oh and the Golden Globes are for sure the most boring awards show to watch and I think I'll skip them next year!

As for New Years resolutions my main one is to get in bed by 11:00, which hasn't happened since probably 5th grade for me. What can I say us Felsteds are night-owls!

One last thing... Ladd was a honor student last semester! I was so excited to show him that I taped it to the T.V. where I knew he would see it! This is also pretty amazing since I think he studied for all of his tests maybe 2 hours at the most. (Do I deserve some of this credit for typing all his assignments because he never learned how...? I would say yes)

And here are some pictures!

This is how we kept warm for our Wendys run!

New Years Eve

CHRISTMAS CHEER

2009-12-29T00:18:00.000-08:00

We of course had an amazing Christmas this year. How could we not when we have the amazing families that we do? Loved having time to spend with the people I love! Can't wait for next year

Christmas Eve

Giving Cujo some Christmas morning love

The girls and their letter from Santa...

Soleil only brought one present and it was a grey crayon for Ladd because it's his "favorite color". So cute!!

The girls...

All of the boys

Ladd and Heather on our girls' night out

NEW MOON:)

So my youngest niece, Ciel, loves everything Snow White right now and says that she looks like her and I saw this dress-up and couldn't resist. Best reaction to a gift ever, it was so fun! I know she didn't take it off for at least a day later though...(sorry Kell!)

November 2010

2009-12-10T00:29:00.001-08:00

Please time... speed up

P.S.- If you love Harry check out the new trailer... WOW

The VB's

2009-11-23T21:07:00.000-08:00

I have seen this on many blogs and felt like doing it while my husband plays Call Of Duty! (Please tell me my husband isn't the ONLY one addicted to this game.....)

What are your middle names? Ladd goes by his middle name actually and mine is Elizabeth

How long have you been together? Our first date was July 2004 and and we got married 4 years later!

How long did you know each other before you started dating? The first time I met Ladd was when I snuck out to his house in 8th grade with Heather so..... 2 years

Whose siblings do you see the most? Ladd works with Brody so probably his but we see mine once a week

Do you have any children together? When we can afford one we definitely will!

What about pets? If we could we would have a small dog (Ladd says a big, we'll have to figure that one out)

Did you go to the same school? Davis High (he made me a true dart!) and WSU

Who is the most sensitive? Hmmm.... probably me

Where do you eat out most as a couple? This is sad but Wendy's.... if we feel like driving a little farther than Costa Vida

Where is the furthest you have traveled as a couple? Cabo San Lucas or Florida... whichever one is farther?

Who has the worst temper? Ladd gets mad easier but I get mad for longer when I get mad

Who does the cooking? Always me. Sometimes Wendy

Who is more social? Definitely Ladd... we will be places and see people we both went to high school with and they will talk to him forever and not say one word to me. Plus he's so easy to get along with

Who is the neat freak? Neither of us are neat freaks but Ladd will usually clean up more than I do. A messy apartment doesn't bug me when I have other things to do!

Who is the most stubborn? I would say Ladd, he would say me.

Who hogs the bed? Occasionally I'll wake up and Ladd will be completely on my side of the bed

Who wakes up earlier? Usually me unless Ladd has something special for work

Where was the first date? American Idol concert and then make-out point!

Who has a bigger family? ME!

Do you get flowers often? I don't like Ladd to spend money on flowers but he always gets them on special occasions anyway

Who eats more? It used to be me but since Ladd has had his surgery he eats more

Who sings better? We are both awful and like to entertain ourselves and each other by singing

Who does the laundry? Whoever is home and remembers to do it!

Who is better with the computer? Ladd is better with all computer stuff except for typing... he never learned how to type!

Who drives when you are together? I prefer to drive because Ladd's driving scares me half the time

Who picks where you go to dinner? Usually me!

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Ladd...

Who wears the pants in the relationship? Ladd says me... big stuff we decide together though

Who eats more sweets? Me for sure....

Who cries more? Me!

What's your best day together? I love Sundays because we both have the day off and we get to sleep in and see our families

Where did you go on your honeymoon? Viva Las Vegas

Favorite date night? A good dinner and then games! Anyone who knows me knows I love to play games!

Favorite T.V. shows to watch together? Grey's Anatomy, The Office, Prison Break, 24

And now here's some recent pictures!

Ciel and I at a wedding in Idaho

The boys out by the fire

NEW MOON PREMIERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On a fun drive!

October-Fest

2009-11-03T16:17:00.001-08:00

So we had much going on this month. Frightmares, pumpkin painting, Colorado Springs, and a Halloween party! Great month.

(P.S.- I am back to brunette now instead of my kind of blonde color and am happy to be back)

Frightmares! I think I enjoy it more than anyone else

Catch-up dinner with Carly and cute baby Lucy

The girls decided to pumpkin paint while the boys pumpkin carved

My finished product. Can you believe it only took 4th at my bank? Lame

Heather and me painting! Notice her cute tranny pumpkin

Dirty wing fingers in Colorado Springs

Yummy ranch face

Pictures from our Halloween party! Alfalfa and Darla

Referee and a beautiful woman with a hairy chest

Nerd and a cute bummed patient

Peacock and Joe Dirt

Pirates

MJ and a Ninja

Nerds

Fred and Wilma Flintstone

Rhett being very scary

League of their Own. Jesse does an amazing job once again!

The Flamingo Family

Roman Goddess and Army dude

Blind Ref and a Bears player

Ladd just lookin literally sick

1 year! Oh yeah.

2009-10-05T19:55:00.001-07:00

We just celebrated our one year anniversary and let me just say it fleewwwwwwww by! We have had an awesome first year of marriage and I feel so lucky to have the husband I do! Love him so much... We went up to Park City for a romantic getaway for a night and then his family came up for the next two nights. Can't wait for 50 more of these!!

Dinner at Last Samurai

This guy bought us dinner because it was our anniversary! Such a sweetie!

Best part of the hotel was our personal hot tub on the balcony!

Main Street in Park City

1 week later

2009-09-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

Everything went well with Ladd's surgery and he has recovered nicely! We had a great experience with the staff (especially the nurses; thanks Tiff and Nikki!) and things are going back to normal for our family of two. Now he's just gotta avoid playing basketball and flag football for three more weeks!

Here he is waiting to go in

Sleeping over at the hospital

This Guy

2009-09-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

Ladd and one of his best friend's Hogge

Ladd in some trees

Getting engaged

This guy is getting his heart fixed today... a little nervous? Yes I am. I'm more excited for this strange journey called "The mystery of Ladd's health" to be over and done with... I am the most excited and hopeful that after he heals he'll feel healthy and normal again. I love him SO much and he's my best friend in the entire world! Best thing that ever happened to me was falling in love with him. Keep him in your prayers today for me!

I Miss This Girl

2009-09-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

come home already... please?

P.S.-How cute are they?

...IDAHO...

2009-08-30T22:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend we took a trip to visit my grandparents in Idaho! My grandpa is awesome and took care of us the whole time from homemade breakfasts, a hike, fishing trip, square ice-cream cones, and four-wheeling. We definitely need to find the time to go up again soon!

Ladd and I before the fishing trip

Larry, the guide, and the other fisherman

Checkin out the snake river

Discovered that Ladd is amazing at skipping rocks!

Well Wes caught and released six fish and Ladd caught zero but still had fun!

Jesse climbed a huge scary rock on our hike and then struck a pose

Hiking with our 73-year-old Grandpa...I had to try to keep up with him!

Family picture

My grandparents are so cute! My grandma is amazing and has been through more health problems than anyone I know. Just to name a few I can think of...kidney disease, eye and breast cancer, hip problems, foot problems, allergic reactions, and most recently a bleed in her brain which they attempted to repair with surgery. She had to shave her head but her hair is growing back and I think she looks so cute with it! She is still recovering so we hope she continues to do so and look up to her so much. Aren't grandparents the greatest? I'm so lucky to have 4 of the best.

School....seriously?

2009-08-27T23:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe summer has already ended....it FLEW by so fast! My classes this semester seem like they will be really good so far with the exception of biological psychology...what was I thinking getting into that?? Oh and combined it cost us 730$ for books! I cannot believe how much money publishers make off of us impoverished college students. We discovered last minute that Ladd had an assignment due at midnight tonight so he went into panic mode and let me just say it was REALLY funny! He may have thrown an adult version of a tantrum when it finally hit him that'd he would have to start worrying about things such as assignments. (He has almost all online so going back to school hadn't really sunk in yet) Needless to say we had a good laugh about it afterwards!

OH and the worst part by far about going back to school is driving on Highway 89!! I have spent at least 2 hours so far this week stuck in traffic on that road so I vowed to myself I would take I-15 from now on. Construction is the worst.

Other than school being stressful and expensive life is really good.... if you haven't seen the newest New Moon trailer check it out and enjoy every second of Jacob with his shirt off:)

Sad Day...

2009-08-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday one of my mom's good friends passed away very suddenly. It was some of the most shocking news I've ever heard in my life and my thoughts are prayers go out to their family. She was an amazing woman and will be greatly missed...

Tragedies like this really make me stop and realize what is important in life. Sure I wish we made more money or that I was done with school or that I could buy whatever I wanted. What really is important in my life are the people in it, especially my husband whom I love more than anything! He seriously is everything to me. Not to mention he's my best friend and can make me laugh at anytime, even if I'm really mad. Both our families and friends are awesome and I'm just grateful for everyone in my life!

The VB's

New Years

CHRISTMAS DAY

Christmas Eve

Christmas Parties

Merry Christmas!!

Knox @ 7 months

Thanksgiving

this guy

Halloween 2011

___Six Months___

Hanes VB

Life as of Late

Family Pics 2011

Knox's First Haircut

...3 YEARS...

Frightmares

...5...

Twins

Cara and Amber

some recentish pictures

Candids

9/11/11

My boys

Random Happenings

KVB @ 4 Months

Moose Hollow

Bees + Rain

Park City

The Avett Brothers

HP 7.2

...3 months...

growth

...The 4th...

2 months for Knox

Cheeks

my baby boy

blue steel+tub time

recent happenings

...One month of Knox...

Smile

Knox's First Week

Knox Ladd Van Brocklin

The Reunion

Any day now...

2-3

preggo wisdom

Penguin

Baby Shower + Maternity Pics

V-Day and Idaho Wedding

Friend Shower

My belly is BIG

Christmas and the New Year

Preggo Update

it's a.....

Harry Potter 7.1

Boy or Girl?

Top 3 reasons to be excited for November

As of late...

TWO YEARS

...Yes it's true...

...Summmmer...

HIKE + RANDOM

Time to Brag

Our Moms

Just a few things

WAY back Wednesday #2

B & B

....I don't even know...

In my dreams..

the newest addition...

V-DAY LOVIN...

I'm Obsessed

Way Back Wednesday

The New Year

*CHRISTMAS CHEER*

November 2010

The VB's

October-Fest

1 year! Oh yeah.

_Six Months_

CHRISTMAS CHEER